OKC Thunder Report Card as team enters stretch

Swiss Army knife with an Italian twist:

Danilo Gallinari is a revelation. Perhaps it’s a matter of not witnessing his games enough or his untimely injuries but Gallo could truly be the most underrated power forward in the association.

The Italian is showcasing the complete toolbox of skills, consistency and most importantly efficiency that could push any elite team over the top. Still, T.I. will continue our rant to do what is necessary to keep Gallo in Loud City as he’s simply not a player that can be easily replaced.

Not since a certain MVP patrolled the hardwood at Chesapeake have the Thunder had a power forward that not only could produce but affect winning. Gallinari’s ability to stretch the court has opened up the floor for the oft utilized trio of point guards and more importantly allowed his frontcourt New Zealand partner to best showcase his talents.

For all the positives and benefits he offers the team there are some areas of weakness. He’s definitely better defensively than most of us thought. But when he’s put in a position to defend mobile power forwards it presents problems. Likewise, recently some teams have started running their wings and guards at Gallo recognizing his lateral slides aren’t as fast as say someone of Pascal Siakam‘s ilk.  Then again, there aren’t many power forward in the league who produce like Gallo that also defend at an above average level.

Although Gallo carried an injury-prone tag with him he’s missed only eight games through the 55 played. Considering he had an appendectomy this offseason to recover from and also played in the FIBA tournament that feels like a reasonable amount.

In the 47 games he has played he’s averaging 19.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. His shooting splits are impressive with efficiencies of 44.3 percent from the field, 40.7 percent from the perimeter and 89.9 percent from the charity stripe.